If you’ve paid attention to the news lately, mosquitoes have been making regular headlines for yet another disease they spread. As of April 18, 2016, 42 countries worldwide report active Zika virus transmission. Most are concentrated throughout Central and South America, however, countries in the Pacific Island and Africa also made the list. As of April 20, 2016, 40 U.S. states have reported 388 travel-associated Zika virus cases. No cases were acquired stateside.
What Zika Means for Mosquito Control
While there is no cure for the Zika virus, avoiding mosquitoes is the best course of action for a strong defense. Earlier this month, the CDC held a conference to educate local state departments on prevention and their strongest recommendation is to reduce the mosquito population. Several states have already taken action. In Florida, a state of emergency was declared in areas where people have tested positive for the Zika virus and the Florida Department of Health is already conducting surveillance of mosquitoes to monitor whether the virus is present in living insects populations.
In Texas, the state’s health department has crafted an action plan in case of an outbreak and a team that will focus on potential birth defects from the virus. In Louisiana, the state health department is working to monitor both mosquitoes and people for the disease and is warning residents to make sure their homes are prepared by eliminating standing water.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has also been proactive with making sure these local departments have all the information they need to tackle the issue. They have a Risk-Based Preparedness and Response Guide for states that’s available; unfortunately there isn’t much said about states providing mosquito control, which puts it back in the hands of home owners.
These warnings to be thoughtful about mosquito control around your home and eliminating breeding areas for mosquitoes have led to an increased number of calls for local Mosquito Joe owners. With consumer concern rising, our professional mosquito control services are a bright light when considering the illnesses mosquitoes carry. We’re glad to be an added layer of defense to families wanting to take back their yards and enjoy the summer. Our certified technicians provide a service that is completely tailored to yards, making it a very effective way to keep yards healthy and itch-free, all while taking the guesswork out of the do-it-yourself approach.
Due to lack of funding, over $500 million in unused Ebola crisis money has been re-dedicated to the fight against Zika. It’s a problem that doesn’t seem to have a quick solution in sight.
Becoming the Neighborhood Joe
The good news is that you can be the solution for your community by becoming the neighborhood hero. If you’ve been considering a franchise opportunity, the mosquito control industry is growing – and it’s growing quickly. This year we expect to have 170 mosquito control franchise locations open across 26 states. You have a wonderful opportunity to be a part of a business that is helping in the fight against Zika virus and other mosquito borne illnesses.
